Community Cognitive Stimulation Therapist (CST)

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Community Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Nurse or Allied Health Professional to lead our outpatient group interventions for individuals living with mild-to-moderate dementia. Based in the community, this role focuses on delivering evidence-based psychosocial interventions to enhance cognitive functioning, promote social inclusion, and support independent living.

• Job Title: Community Cognitive Stimulation Therapist (CST)
• Setting: Outpatient Community Clinics / Day Services
• Target Patient Group: Adults living in the community with mild-to-moderate dementia
• Position Type: Part-Time 7.3 hours p/week (Specify hours)

Key Responsibilities

Group Facilitation & Clinical Delivery

• Lead CST Groups: Facilitate structured, 7-week evidence-based CST group cycles (14 themed sessions) for community-dwelling adults.
• Tailor Activities: Adapt multi-sensory activities, word games, music, and current affairs discussions to match the cognitive abilities of the group.
• Promote Connection: Foster a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere that reduces social isolation and encourages meaningful peer interaction.
• Maintain Consistency: Establish a predictable, secure group routine to minimize anxiety and build participant confidence.

Assessment & Community Caseload Management

• Screen Referrals: Evaluate community, GP, and memory clinic referrals to assess suitability for outpatient CST groups.
• Track Outcomes: Perform baseline and post-programme cognitive, mood, and quality-of-life assessments using standardized tools.
• Monitor Wellbeing: Watch for signs of physical decline, delirium, or caregiver burnout, making onward referrals when necessary.
• Document Care: Maintain accurate, up-to-date clinical notes regarding patient attendance, engagement, and progression.

Family Support & Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Support Carers: Provide resources and education to family members, helping them extend cognitive stimulation techniques into the home.
• Community Awareness: Act as an advocate for dementia-friendly community initiatives and promote the benefits of early psychosocial intervention.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Professional Licensure

• Graduate Degree: Registered General (RGN)/Registered Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse (RPN) or Allied Health Professional (OT / Social Worker / Physiotherapist).
• Active Registration: Current, valid registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) or equivalent regulatory body.

Experience & Specialised Training

• Dementia Care: Minimum of 2 years of post-qualification experience working with older adults or community dementia services.
• CST Certification: Certified training in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy facilitation is highly desirable (training will be provided to the ideal candidate).

Core Competencies

• Communication: Masterful verbal and non-verbal communication skills adapted for individuals with progressive cognitive impairment.
• Group Management: Proven ability to manage group dynamics, balance varying participation levels, and de-escalate responsive behaviours.
• Independence: Strong organizational and time-management skills required to coordinate community outpatient clinics efficiently.

Full, clean driving licence required.